OAKLAND — As the Golden State Valkyries prepare to tip off their inaugural season at Chase Center with a preseason matchup against the Los Angeles Sparks on May 6, the story is already bigger than basketball. It’s about chemistry, culture — and making the right calls, even when they’re difficult.
Just days before opening night, the team made its first roster cut—waiving Shyanne Sellers, a talented guard out of Maryland. It was a move that caught some by surprise, but one that head coach Natalie Nakase stood firmly behind.
“We’re looking for the best 12,” Nakase said. “Not just the most talented 12. The 12 who give us the best chance to build chemistry, compete every night, and grow together.”
That belief in building a cohesive unit has echoed through training camp. Veteran forward Temi Fagbenle said the team is already bonding through shared effort and constant communication.
“We’ve grown a lot,” Fagbenle explained. “We’ve come from different backgrounds, different teams, even different continents. But day by day, we’re learning each other—learning the system, the language, the expectations—and really leaning into that together.”
She pointed out that leadership hasn’t been top-down—it’s been collective.
“Monique, Tiffany, Katie, Veronica, Kate — they’ve all stepped up vocally,” she said. “But everyone is bringing energy and accountability. No egos. That’s the type of chemistry you need if you want to win long-term.” Veronica Burton, a key defensive player, added to that sentiment.
“It’s about pushing each other,” Burton said. “We all bring something different to the table, but we’re learning how to come together in a way that will make us stronger, especially when things get tough.”
Chemistry isn’t just being built behind closed doors—it’s being showcased center stage at Chase Center. Last week, the team unveiled its new custom court: a chevron wood pattern symbolizing Valkyries in flight, with the team’s bold Valkyries Violet trim setting the tone.
“The Valkyries court will be the centerpiece of franchise-defining moments,” said Kimberly Veale, Valkyries SVP of Marketing and Communications. “From the inaugural tip-off to that first buzzer-beater, this court is where history begins.”
Fans will also feel the energy thanks to a powerhouse in-arena entertainment team. Ari Waller (fresh off a season with the Warriors) returns as in-arena host. Jamie Coffee, a veteran voice from the Sacramento Kings and 49ers, takes the mic as PA announcer. DJs DJSHELLHEART and DJ LadyRyan will keep the vibes high, while The Flock, the team’s hype crew, debuts Tuesday. Violet Vibes, a multi-generational dance team, joins the festivities on May 16.
On the airwaves, the Valkyries’ new partnership with CBS Bay Area will deliver games to 11 million fans across Northern California. Jacob Tobey and Morgan Ragan will lead play-by-play coverage, with Derek Clark calling select games. In the studio, Vern Glenn and Zena Keita will anchor broadcasts, joined by Layshia Clarendon and Matt Lively for select games.
It’s a fully realized launch—but one grounded in the intangibles.
“We’re not just assembling talent—we’re building a team,” Nakase emphasized. “The way this group supports each other, communicates, and competes — that’s what makes us dangerous.”
As Fagbenle put it, chemistry is easy when things go well. It’s what happens when fatigue sets in that defines a team.
“We’re tired sometimes,” she said, smiling. “But we’re still talking, still trusting. That’s what matters. That’s what builds a team.”
From the purple-trimmed hardwood at Chase Center to the voices in the huddle, the Golden State Valkyries are ready to take flight—not as 12 individuals, but as one united force.
The Golden State Valkyries will kick off their pre-season with an exciting matchup against the Los Angeles Sparks at Chase Center on May 6 at 7 p.m. This game marks the beginning of a historic season for the team as they prepare to make their mark in the WNBA.
After the pre-season opener, the Valkyries will face the Los Angeles Sparks again in their 2025 regular season home opener on May 16. Fans attending the game will receive a special Valkyries inaugural season t-shirt, a token to commemorate the first-ever WNBA season in the Bay Area. This highly anticipated event will be a memorable moment for both the team and its fans, marking the start of a new era in women’s basketball for the region.
For tickets, news, and more team updates, visit www.valkyries.wnba.com.
